Where we’ll meet again
White cliffs park to be Vera Lynn tribute
PLANS for a Dame Vera Lynn Memorial Park over the “White Cliffs of Dover” have been revealed.
The public park will house a 3,500-capacity outdoor amphitheatre with views of the English Channel.
There will also be a statue of the forces’ sweetheart, by sculptor Paul Day.
Built on a former military barracks, the park will include a visitor centre,
restaurant, coffee shop and gift shop and stepped seating to view two stages.
Dover district council has submitted a Levelling Up Fund application, due to be decided by September, to help cover the estimated £20.55million cost.
The Dame Vera Lynn Memorial Trust hopes to raise £3m in donations.
Planning documents state: “The memorial is to be an expression of gratitude from the nation to a lady whose musical talent touched the lives of millions of people. This is a memorial of thanks and celebration to an iconic figure of the 20th century.”
Sir Paul McCartney, Katherine Jenkins and Joanna Lumley back the park idea.
Planning consent is expected by May 2022, with a builder appointed the following August. Phase One is due to be unveiled in March 2023, with a musical production stage finished in May 2024.
Tory MP Sir David Amess said in May: “This project will provide a venue for concerts and theatrical productions in a stunning natural setting.”
Dame Vera’s songs, including The White Cliffs of Dover, helped raised national morale during the Second World War.
She died in June last year aged 103.